Parents

Official Synopsis:

“Meet the Laemles. Dad’s got a great job, mom has all the modern conveniences a happy homemaker could ask for, and ten-year-old Michael has new friends and two parents who kill him with kindness. They’re the all-American family . . . or are they? Michael can’t figure out why his family serves leftovers every night. “Leftovers? Well, what were they before they were leftovers?” questions young Michael. “Leftovers-to-be,” smiles dad. Dad’s bringing home the bacon . . . and a whole lot more! Michael’s parents are getting away with murder – making home where the horror is!”

Parents is a bizarre tale told in a much simpler age, following a suburban family who seems to have it all. Underneath this nuclear family exterior lies a twisted and dark story with multiple interpretations.

The film is told through the point of view of Michael, a ten year old child with a seemingly active imagination, or is it something more? This child is deeply troubled by things he witnesses in his home, and by the actions of his parents, which are clearly evident by his interactions with fellow students and classroom drawings in which he depicts his family in a bloodbath. What is both fascinating about this film and equally as frustrating is the fact you can’t quite tell if this is some coping mechanism this kid is experiencing in his head due to abuse, or things he sees his parents do that he can’t understand. Or, is this in fact as cut and dry as it touts itself to be, a family of cannibals who are trying to hide the truth from their child. Regardless of which it is, the film explores some very dark and traumatic family experiences, horrific in the fact that this type of resentment of your child exists in some people.

The best thing about Parents is the style of the film. The era it takes place in, 1950’s suburbia is perfect, and it uses this style in a way you’ve never seen before. Suburbia is very much a character in the film. There are several technical choices the filmmakers use, whether it is the choice of lens, or extreme lighting choices, which further characterize the stark contrast between the parents and Michael.

Also great is the performances of almost everyone involved. Randy Quaid is completely terrifying in his role as the Dad. The only thing lacking in the film is the consistency of the child actor who plays Michael. He does really well in some scenes, which one can only imagine how impossibly hard it must be for a child with such innocence convey such horrific moments. In other scenes, however, his acting is unbearable, which is a real shame because of how well he does in other scenes.

Once you find out the answer to what his parents are really cooking Michael for dinner each night, the film still stays open to interpretation. Despite the original intent of the writer, which he discusses in the special features, another great thing about the film is how different people can interpret the film and have it mean something totally different to them. That is the power of film, and what ultimately brings movie fans together.

Video

Parents is presented in 1080p High Definition Widescreen 1.85:1. The most prominent thing you’ll notice in this transfer is the excessiveness of the grain throughout the film, especially in the darker scenes. With the unique methods of lighting the film, the grain seems to be more noticeable. The palate of 1950’s suburbia is well maintained, though colors tend to be a bit muted.

Audio

The audio is presented in the original 2.0 stereo. Although not the most ideal way to experience a film nowadays, levels are surprisingly good, with a perfect soundtrack to accompany the film and the era it takes place in. No defects were noticed throughout the audio track.

Special Features

Vestron is making a name for itself in getting some really good Special Features on these obscure horror titles. With vastly different ways to interpret the film, the Special Features are basically essential to watch, which always strengthens my appreciation for the film I’ve just watched.

On this set you’re going to get:

• Audio Commentary with Director Bob Balaban and Producer Bonnie Palef
• Isolated Score Selections / Audio Interview with Composer Jonathan Elias
• Featurettes: “Leftovers to Be” with Screenwriter Christopher Hawthorne, “Mother’s Day” with Actress Mary Beth Hurt, “Inside Out” with Director of Photography Robin Vidgeon, “Vintage Tastes” with Decorative Consultant Yolando Cuomo
• Theatrical Trailer
• Radio Spots
• Still Gallery

Parents isn’t your traditional horror film. It explores concepts and themes much smarter than a typical gore-fest or slasher picture. Although it may require multiple viewings to fully appreciate the different possible meanings, one thing is for sure, you can’t look away.